Sharjah: The annual Sharjah Grand Prix — the final round of the UIM F1 Powerboat World Championship — will once again be the highlight of the Fifth Sharjah Water Festival to be held at Al Majaz Park from December 14-23.
"Each year we strive to make this festival bigger and better, and the highlight is always the final round of the F1 Powerboat World Championship that attracts more than 75,000 visitors to Sharjah," Shaikh Sultan Bin Ahmad Al Qasimi, Chairman, Sharjah Commerce and Tourism Development Authority (SCTDA), said at the announcement yesterday.
"The Sharjah Water Festival has a unique appeal and it goes a long way in boosting the emirate's position as a prominent tourism, family and entertainment destination. It also blends the glory of the past with the prestige of the future while enhancing Sharjah's profile on the world tourism map," he added.
Held for the 12th time this year, the Sharjah Grand Prix will be held on Khalid Lagoon in front of the Corniche Al Buhairah Hotel during the first weekend of the festival on December 15-16.
"Each year we have set a standard for the F1 race and this year is no different as we are targeting even more action and excitement. In addition, we have a team representing the UAE and this will bring in more action on the water," Shaikh Sultan noted.
"There has been a lot of development in the Al Majaz and Corniche area and I can safely say that things will only get better for everyone," he added.
Attended by representatives of sponsors and partners, Shaikh Sultan stressed that the SCTDA is committed to promoting Sharjah as a world-class destination, and the organisation of such top-level social and sporting events are part of this strategic plan.
One of the novelties this year during the course of the festival will be the renowned "Circus On Ice" along with magic shows, ice skating and the annual Mouj Adventure Zone.
Since its inception, the Sharjah Grand Prix has won the UIM best organiser award on five occasions — 2000, 2002, 2003, 2004 and 2007 and also the World Journalism Award for the successful organisation of the event in 2001. The annual event is being held under the patronage of His Highness Dr Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Al Qasimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Sharjah, and Shaikh Sultan Bin Mohammad Bin Sultan Al Qasimi, Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Sharjah.
The festival is sponsored by etisalat, Sahara Centre, Mega Mall, Al Zahra Private Hospital, Bukhatir Group, Panasonic, Corniche Al Buhairah Hotel and Hotel Radisson Blu along with partners Zulal, Sharjah Electricity and Water Authority (Sewa), Sharjah Public Works Department, Sharjah Police, Sharjah Customs and Sharjah Municipality.
